Berlin, Germany - Mayor David Miller and Councillor Kyle Rae today met with
representatives from Berlin's cultural community, as well as the Deputy Mayor
of Berlin. Berlin is recognized as one of the most culturally vibrant cities
in Europe.

"With our mission to position Toronto as a global cultural capital, it is
crucial that we capitalize on the experience and achievements of Berlin," said
Mayor David Miller. "The level of government investment in culture has made
Berlin a world leader in this area. It's inspiring to see what can happen when
governments commit to making culture a priority - Berlin is thriving."

As a way to engage the community on cultural policies, programs and activities,
Mayor Miller recently inaugurated the Arts and Culture Roundtable, and
appointed Councillor Rae as chair. The role of the roundtable is to advise the
Mayor and Council by helping to identify and establish priorities and
strategies.

Councillor Rae said, "As Toronto embarks on a transformation into a cultural
capital of the 21st century, it's important to foster partnerships with cities
like Berlin and create alliances to further Toronto's growth."

In 2003, City Council endorsed Toronto's Culture Plan for the Creative City, an
action plan to help guide the city's cultural development over the next ten
years. The Culture Plan proposes 63 recommendations that will allow the city to
fulfil its potential as a creative capital, including beautifying the city
through increased public art, to preserving and promoting heritage
buildings.